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President Pranab Mukherjee presented national awards for the empowerment of persons with disabilities on the occasion of International Day of Disabled Persons at Vigyan Bhawan here on Tuesday evening.
Speaking on the occasion, Mukherjee said the Indian Constitution stipulates the state to ensure equality, freedom, justice and dignity of all individuals which implies an inclusive society for all, including persons with disabilities.
"We are committed to the full empowerment of persons with disabilities. Specific schemes, programmes and facilities must be formulated particularly for the empowerment of children, women and senior citizens with disabilities as they need special consideration. This is necessary in order to bring them into the mainstream of society and improve the quality of their lives, " said Mukherjee.
The President said that education can equip the differently-abled to be strong enough to face the world. Children with disabilities, he said, should get adequate opportunities to pursue their education which can enable them to get gainful employment in future for leading a life of dignity and respect.
"It is imperative to have websites in accessible format for reaching information to the differently abled. Ensuring the provision of accessible information and disabled friendly technology will enhance the opportunities for progress of persons with disabilities," he added.
